We’ve all been there: you want to host a get-together, but the anxiety of making sure everyone actually enjoys themselves starts creeping in. Hosting a great house party doesn’t require a Hollywood budget, but it does require a strategy.

From setting the acoustic atmosphere to keeping everyone fed and watered, a memorable night boils down to a few critical pillars. If you want your next gathering to be legendary—or at least the talk of the group chat for the next week—here is your ultimate checklist of house party essentials.